In a surprising turn of events with less than two weeks to go until training camps open around the NBA, 21-year-old Houston Rockets forward A.J. Griffin is stepping away from basketball. He will subsequently be waived by the franchise via contract buyout, giving up a significant portion of the $3.9 million he was owed for the upcoming 2024-25 season, per a team source.
Earlier this month, The Athletic reported on Griffin seriously considering retirement, citing undisclosed personal and family-related reasons. Griffin, who played two seasons in Atlanta after the Hawks drafted him No. 16 in 2022, was traded to Houston in June in hopes of a kickstart to his young career. Griffin played five games for the Rockets in Vegas’ July summer league, averaging 11.6 points and 3.0 rebounds.
In 92 career games, Griffin averaged 7.5 points and 1.9 rebounds per game with the Hawks.
Following the conclusion of summer league, Griffin and other teammates took part in voluntary workouts at the new practice facility, but as training camp edged closer, Griffin’s appearances — and communication with the organization — diminished. Griffin’s sudden decision is one that the Rockets didn’t anticipate upon trading for him, but understand that his personal life takes priority and have offered their support.
As of now, the franchise has no immediate plans to fill the roster spot, a team source said. Houston will remain flexible and patient on the market, especially as players around the league become available once training camps open. In addition, the Rockets still have their full non-taxpayer mid-level exception at their disposal.
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